India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy by defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling final held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025.
New Zealand set a target of 252 runs, with notable contributions from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53*). India’s bowlers, particularly spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, played pivotal roles in restricting New Zealand’s total by taking crucial wickets.
In response, India started strongly with a century partnership between captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Sharma led the chase with 76 runs off 83 balls, earning him the Player of the Match award. Despite a mid-innings wobble, KL Rahul’s composed unbeaten 34 ensured India reached the target with an over to spare, finishing at 254 for six in 49 overs.
This victory marks India’s second ICC title in nine months, following their Twenty20 World Cup win against South Africa, also held in Dubai.
The final was played entirely in Dubai due to security concerns, leading to India’s matches being held at a neutral venue
